Ontario Colleges Struggle to Fill International Student Spots
Federal visa policy changes and negative reputation leave schools using only half of approved international student places.
Ontario's colleges are facing a recruitment crisis. Provincial data obtained by Global News reveals that as of June 2025, colleges had used only 46 per cent of the provincial attestation letters (PALs) allocated to them—the permits students need to apply for study visas.
The problem cascades. Even when colleges issue offer letters, the federal government denies visas to a growing share of applicants. Ontario estimates approval rates have fallen 46 to 68 per cent over the past two years, leaving seats empty and budgets strained.
Before the federal cap on international students was introduced less than two years ago, international tuition accounted for roughly one-third of college revenue. Now, colleges like Conestoga and Seneca are using far fewer of their allowed spots. Conestoga received 19,885 PALs but only enrolled 4,469 students by fall. Seneca was allocated 20,388 but enrolled just 2,380.
University of Toronto researcher Elizabeth Buckner points to two main culprits: the federal government revoked postgraduate work permits for international graduates, obliterating a key incentive to study in Canada. Simultaneously, Canada's global reputation as a welcoming study destination has eroded. "Safety is a big one," Buckner said, referring to concerns about both physical security and the political climate.
Colleges, unlike universities, train students for specific labour markets. Without local job prospects and pathway to work visas, international enrollment collapses. The Ford government has poured billions into sector funding to compensate, but the underlying problem—federal policy that makes Canada a less attractive destination—remains unresolved.